HPV-FASTER is an innovative public health intervention combining HPV vaccination and HPV-based screening in adult women at the same visit. FASTER-Tlalpan adapted the combined HPV-FASTER strategy in Tlalpan, Mexico City for women aged 25-45 years. To understand the barriers and facilitators to participation in a combined strategy, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 14 FASTER-Tlalpan participants. We used the constant comparative method for the analysis, as well as the socioecological model to organize the findings. At the intrapersonal level, barriers included the belief that only younger women are at risk for HPV, embarrassment about the pelvic exam, and lack of time, while facilitators were having information regarding the benefit of the combined strategy, perception of time saved by having both procedures at once, feeling reassured about their health, self-esteem regarding their health, and perceived severity of cervical cancer. Interpersonal-level barriers were experiences of stigma and prejudice, and lack of support from partners, while facilitators were family encouragement and peer-to-peer communications. Institutional-level barriers were lack of infrastructure and inconvenient hours at the health center, perceived high time burden, and low quality of care from providers, while facilitators included high-quality care by health center personnel, including partners in the combined strategy, and phone reminders. Community-level facilitators included willingness to participate. Public policy facilitators included mass information campaigns and free procedures. Our findings point to significant barriers which need to be addressed, along with facilitators which can be leveraged to scale up the combined strategy in similar settings.

The lymphocyte-to-C-reactive protein ratio (LCR) is a promising inflammation-based tool for assessing the status of patients with malignant tumours. This study evaluated the ability of LCR to predict the prognosis of patients with unresectable locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (LA-NSCLC) after chemoradiotherapy.

We retrospectively investigated 206 consecutive patients with unresectable LA-NSCLC who underwent chemoradiotherapy between January 2016 and November 2019. The LCR was calculated from the differential count by dividing the absolute lymphocyte count by the C-reactive protein level. The optimal cut-off value of LCR was determined using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, and the enrolled patients were divided into two groups for further analysis according to LCR. Overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were assessed using univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses.

In patients with unresectable LA-NSCLC, the level of LCR was significantly associated with pathology (p = 0.042) and TNM stage (p = 0.002). High LCR and low LCR patients had different distinct outcomes (median OS: 36 vs. 34 months, p < 0.0001) and recurrence risk (median DFS: 31 vs. 23 months, p < 0.001). Univariate analysis indicated that Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status, TNM stage, CEA level, response, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), systemic immune inflammation index (SII), and LCR were predictors of OS and DFS. Multivariate analysis showed that a high LCR was an independent prognostic factor for OS (hazard ratio [HR], 0.526; 95% CI, 0.364-0.762; p = 0.001) and DFS (HR, 0.390; 95% CI, 0.275-0.554; p < 0.001).

LCR is a promising prognostic index in patients with LA-NSCLC undergoing chemoradiotherapy, and an increase in the LCR level contributes to better outcomes.

Chronic liver diseases, including metabolic dysfunction-associated steatosic liver disease (MASLD) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), are on the rise, potentially due to daily exposure to complex mixtures of chemical compounds forming part of the exposome. Understanding the mechanisms involved in hepatotoxicity of these mixtures is essential to identify common molecular targets that may highlight potential interactions at the molecular level. We illustrated this issue with two families of environmental contaminants, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and heterocyclic aromatic amines (HAAs), both of which could be involved in the progression of chronic liver diseases, and whose toxicity may be potentiated by interactions at the level of xenobiotic metabolism. In the study of exposome effects on chronic liver disease, New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) including omics analyses and data from various in vitro, in vivo and in silico approaches, are crucial for improving predictivity of toxicological studies in humans while reducing animal experimentation. Additionally, the development of complex in vitro human liver cell models, such as organoids, is essential to avoid interspecies differences that minimize the risk for humans. All together, these approaches will contribute to construct Adverse Outcome Pathways (AOPs) and could be applied not only to PFAS mixtures but also to other chemical families, providing valuable insights into mixture hepatotoxicity prediction in the study of the exposome. A better understanding of toxicological mechanisms will clarify the role of environmental contaminant mixtures in the development of MASLD and HCC, supporting risk assessment for better treatment, monitoring and prevention strategies.

Endometrial cancer (ECa) is a prevalent gynecological malignancy, with treatment often hindered by metastasis and recurrence driven by cancer stem-like cells. While circular RNAs (circRNAs) are well known for their cytoplasmic roles as microRNA sponges, their nuclear functions remain largely unexplored. This study investigates nuclear circRNAs and their roles in regulating cancer stem-like properties in ECa.

Nuclear RNA sequencing data were analyzed to identify nuclear-enriched circRNAs. The subcellular localization of circGUSBP1 and circZNF680 was assessed via nuclear-cytoplasmic fractionation and RT-qPCR. The functional impact of circGUSBP1 was evaluated using tumorsphere formation, migration, and cisplatin sensitivity assays. Transcriptomic profiling and survival analysis were conducted using circGUSBP1-knockdown ECa cells and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset.

CircGUSBP1 exhibited a high circular-to-linear transcript ratio and was preferentially nuclear, independent of intron retention. Its expression correlated with NANOG and OCT4 upregulation. Overexpression of circGUSBP1 enhanced tumorsphere formation, whereas circGUSBP1-knockdown (KD) reduced tumorsphere formation, impaired migration, and increased cisplatin sensitivity. Transcriptomic analysis revealed downregulation of stemness-related genes, supporting its role as a transcriptional co-activator. Notably, 230 circGUSBP1-regulated genes were co-targeted by OCT4, including SUPT16H and SUV39H2, chromatin remodelers linked to poor prognosis in ECa patients. Higher GUSBP1 expression, but not GUSB, correlated with worse survival outcomes in TCGA data.

These findings identify circGUSBP1 as a nuclear regulator of cancer stemness. Through circGUSBP1/OCT4 co-regulation of chromatin modulators, circGUSBP1 promotes aggressive tumor behavior, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target.

High-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC), an epithelial ovarian carcinoma, is primarily believed to originate from fallopian tube epithelial cells. This site of origin facilitates the dissemination of tumor cells to retroperitoneal organs or tissues, unrestricted by anatomical barriers, thereby promoting metastasis. The present report describes a rare case of HGSOC presenting with retroperitoneal involvement, and provides a comprehensive literature review on its pathogenesis, symptoms, diagnostic methods, treatment strategies and prognosis. The critical role of timely abdominal and pelvic imaging, along with tumor marker analysis, to evaluate patients with retroperitoneal tumors and nonspecific symptoms is emphasized. This approach aids in identifying the origin of retroperitoneal masses and facilitates the early diagnosis of metastatic HGSOC. Notably, an elevated serum CA125 level should raise suspicion of an ovarian malignancy.

The most common complication associated with selective neck dissection is spinal accessory nerve dysfunction and shoulder disability, which result from level IIb dissection. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the incidence of level IIb lymph node metastasis in clinically node-negative (cN0) oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) patients. Patients presenting with cN0 OSCC between November 2012 and November 2023 were included retrospectively. The primary endpoint was the incidence of level IIb lymph node metastasis in these patients. A total of 389 patients (527 supraomohyoid neck dissections) who presented during the 11-year period were included in this study . The incidence of occult cervical lymph node metastasis was 25.2%. The median number of level IIb lymph nodes removed was 5.5. No metastatic lymph node was found at level IIb. The absence of metastatic involvement at level IIb and high prevalence of shoulder dysfunction caused by injury to the spinal accessory nerve during level IIb neck dissection challenges the necessity of level IIb neck dissection in cN0 OSCC.

This study examines the impact of "Internet + diet diary management" on serum total protein (TP), albumin (ALB), and prealbumin (PA) levels, as well as nutritional risk during the postoperative home care period for elderly esophageal cancer patients.

From May 2022 to May 2023, 74 elderly patients who underwent surgical treatment and were discharged as planned were included. Patients were assigned into a control group and a research group, with 37 in each, using a digital randomization table. Both groups received continuous nursing care, with the research group receiving additional "Internet + diet diary management" during their ongoing care. Serum levels of TP, ALB, and PA, along with other nutritional indicators and scores from the Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA), were compared preoperatively and one month post-discharge.

Preoperatively, there was no significant difference in serum indicators and PG-SGA scores between the two groups (P > 0.05). One month postoperatively, the research group showed higher levels of serum ALB, TP, PA, IgA, and IgG, and lower PG-SGA scores than the control group (P < 0.05); no significant differences were found in serum levels of IgM, CA19-9, CA72-4, cyfra21-1, NSE, SCC, and CEA between the groups (P > 0.05).

The application of "Internet + diet diary management" can improve the nutritional status and reduce nutritional risk during the postoperative home care period for elderly patients with esophageal cancer.

Objective   68 Ga-PSMA-HBED-CC positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) represents a clinically relevant technique for the evaluation of prostate cancer (PCa) patients, whereas 18 F-AIF-PSMA-HBED-CC is a novel tracer produced in our center, with suitable radiochemical purity for clinical purposes. We prospectively compared the diagnostic values of both tracers for the detection of metastatic disease in patients with intermediate-/high-risk PCa at initial staging. Materials and Methods  Sixty-six patients (mean age: 63 years; range: 52-78 years) with PCa at initial staging (Gleason score ≥6; median prostate-specific antigen [PSA]: 10 ng/mL; range:1.7-152 ng/mL) prospectively underwent routine 68 Ga-PSMA-11 and 18 F-AlF-PSMA-11 PET/CT scanning with a 64-slice PET/CT scan with time-of-flight (TOF) correction. We measured the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) and lesion-to-background ratio (LBR) in all coincidentally detected lesions. Open prostatectomy and pelvic lymph node dissection were performed in nonmetastatic patients. Histopathology, correlative imaging, and/or clinical follow-up were considered the gold standard. Follow-up was conducted at least 4 months after PET/CT scanning (median: 6.4 months; range: 4-11 months). Sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values were calculated. Results  The overall detection rate was 85% (56/66) for both tracers. At least one suspicious lesion indicating potential PCa metastasis was detected in 20 (30%) and 21 (32%) of 66 patients for 68 Ga-PSMA-11 and 18 F-AIF-PSMA-11 tracers, respectively. A total of 145 extra-prostatic lesions were detected in the bone ( n  = 56), lymph nodes ( n  = 88), and lung ( n  = 1) by at least one radiopharmaceutical: 131 (90%) for 68 Ga-PSMA-11 and 123 (85%) for 18 F-AlF-PSMA-11. In concordant lesions, a significant correlation was found between the SUVmax of both tracers ( r  = 0.90, p  = 0.001). The SUVmax and LBR for 18 F-AlF-PSMA-11 were higher in bone foci ( n  = 39) compared with 68 Ga-PSMA-11 (7.2 vs. 8.9 and 14 vs. 13, respectively, p  = 0.02). For the detection of systemic metastasis, the sensitivity values were the same for both techniques: 0.90 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.68-0.98). We calculated specificities of 0.96 (95% CI: 0.85-0.99) and 0.94 (95% CI: 0.82-0.98) for 68 Ga-PSMA-11 and 18 F-AlF-PSMA-11, respectively. Conclusions   68 Ga-PSMA-11 and 18 F-AlF-PSMA-11 PET/CT seem to be clinically equivalent imaging techniques for the assessment of primary intermediate-/high-risk PCa with promising potential for the detection of metastatic spread that would impact patient management.

Traditional radiotherapy (RT) lacks the precision to distinguish between tumor and normal tissues, leading to inevitable X-ray-induced side effects in patients. Therefore, it is crucial to develop integrated imaging and therapeutic modalities that can reduce side effects on surrounding healthy tissues while enhancing susceptibility to tumor tissues. In this study, we developed a pH-responsive nanodrug (AuNRs-Mn3O4-Ag2S Ve) by self-assembling the second near-infrared (NIR-II, 950-1700 nm) fluorescent probe Ag2S quantum dots (QDs), multifunctional nanozyme Mn3O4 nanoparticles (NPs), and radiosensitizer gold nanorods (AuNRs) into a single nanoplatform via an emulsion process. This nanodrug enables precise tumor localization for accurately guided RT and multi-angle sensitization of RT. Upon intravenous administration, the nanodrug disintegrates in the tumor area due to the pH-sensitive polymer P4VP, releasing Ag2S QDs which are specifically activated by the acidic environment, thereby "turning on" the NIR-II fluorescence signal. The optimal timing of the NIR-II fluorescence signal within the tumor region after intravenous injection was investigated, providing a reference for guided RT. In vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed the efficient enhancement of tumor radiosensitization by AuNRs and Mn3O4 NPs. The specific imaging modality that transitions the fluorescence signal from "off" to "on" has been successfully implemented, addressing the limitations of conventional RT and enhancing radiosensitivity. The integration of imaging and therapeutic approaches in this study presents a promising modality for image-guided tumor RT.

The requirement for relevant and safe drugs for cancer treatment is considered a challenge. Recently, marine isolated compounds with various therapeutic targets have attracted many researchers.

Isolation and identification of potential anticancer peptides from edible Callista chione soft tissues.

C. chione specimens were collected and peptides were extracted, purified with FPLC, and tested on normal (hepatocytes and VERO) and cancer (HepG2, and HT-29) cells. Bioactive fractions were tested by tandem mass spectrometry.

Five different fractions were purified according to ionic charges and two fractions (4 and 5) showed a potent anticancer activity with a total anticancer score threshold of ≥ 0.5, and hydrophilicity mean of 1.75 that related to stability and solubility. The apoptotic and autophagy-related markers were significantly up-regulated in both HepG2 and HT-29 cells treated with IC50 of bioactive peptides' fractions 4 and 5, explaining their underlying mechanism of action.

Natural source peptides derived from the soft tissue of C. chione could be exploited for the treatment of cancers and a deep in silico study will be performed for further investigation and deep function identification.

The purpose of the study is to investigate the gender differences among newly diagnosed cancer patients from the cultural perspective of Pakistan. The data comprised two equal groups: men (50%) and women (50%). Most participants were 31-45 years old, and the duration of the cancer diagnosis was less than 6 months (74.6%). The data was collected on the following scales: the discrimination and stigma scale, the internalized stigma scale, the WHO-quality of life scale, and the fear of death scale. Data was analyzed using SPSS v.25; descriptive statistics, an independent sample t-test, and simple linear regression were applied to the data. The results revealed that men and women are both experiencing cancer-related stigmatization in Pakistan. However, women face a higher level of stigmatization, lower quality of life, and higher fear of death than men. Furthermore, the regression analysis result confirms that the cancer-related stigma faced by the diagnosed patients decreases the patient's quality of life and induces the fear of death.

Radiation-induced lymphocyte apoptosis (RILA) and chromosomal damage assays (CDA) are proposed predictors of radiotherapy (RT) adverse events (RTAE). This study evaluated RILA and CDA in patients undergoing different RT dose regimens for early breast (FAST trial) or prostate (CHHiP trial) cancer.

Consecutive patients were recruited from each trial. Fresh heparinized blood samples were analysed for RILA and CDA. The primary endpoint was time to first change in photographic breast appearance (FAST) or time to first grade ≥2 RTOG bladder or bowel toxicity (CHHiP). The secondary endpoint in FAST was breast fibrosis.

The dataset included 103 FAST and 297 CHHiP trial patients. No significant association of RILA with the primary endpoint was observed in the FAST trial. However, the risk of grade ≥2 breast fibrosis was lower in patients with RILA ≥24% compared to those with RILA ≤16% (P = .012). In the CHHiP trial, no significant associations were found between CDA after prostate RT outcomes. However, higher levels of micronuclei per cell were associated with a lower risk of grade ≥2 RTOG pelvic toxicities. The relative risk of developing grade ≥2 RTAE decreased for patients with RILA ≥ 24% but was not statistically significant.

No association was found between RILA and photographic breast appearance. High RILA values were statistically associated with a lower risk of grade ≥2 breast fibrosis. In the CHHiP trial, most assays showed no association with pelvic toxicities.

RILA is confirmed as a potential predictor of breast fibrosis regarding fraction sizes.

In this work the relationship between Schistosoma mansoni (Sm) and the induction and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC) is examined. Various clinical studies reviewed here yield inconsistent results, with some reporting no association between Sm infection and CRC and others suggesting a probable to strong association. Here we propose a number of plausible mechanisms whereby Sm infection might contribute to CRC induction and/or progression. These factors are (1) chronic inflammation, (2) exposure to parasite linked antigens and genotoxic products, especially soluble egg antigens (SEAs) and (3) alteration of the intestinal microbiota. These factors probably predispose humans towards CRC and can help in CRC progression however only widespread epidemiological, clinical and pathological studies can firmly establish their role or a complete lack of it.

The effectiveness of post-treatment HPV vaccination with the Human papillomavirus 9-valent (9vHPV) vaccine in women treated with loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) for high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN2-3) or laser ablation (LA) for low-grade lesions (CIN1) remains a topic of ongoing research.

This single-center retrospective observational study included 326 women aged 25 to 65 years who underwent surgical treatment between 2020 and 2024. Participants were divided into two groups: vaccinated (V) and non-vaccinated (NV). A further stratification was then reported by age < 40 years (n = 174) and ≥ 40 years (n = 152). The primary outcomes were HPV test results and colposcopy findings 6-15 months post-treatment, evaluating the potential adjuvant effect of HPV vaccination.

The vaccinated group (V-group) comprised 68 % (222/326) of participants, while 32 % (104/326) were unvaccinated (NV-group). Among women treated for CIN1, a positive HPV test was detected in 38 % of unvaccinated women compared to 18 % in vaccinated women (p = 0.0169). Among those treated for CIN2-3, 18 % of unvaccinated women had a positive HPV test, compared to 8 % in the vaccinated group (p = 0.0353). Vaccination, also in women with an age ≥ 40-year-old had a statistically significant effect in reducing the proportion of women with a positive HPV test (p = 0.0100).

Human papillomavirus 9-valent vaccine was associated with a significant reduction in the proportion of women with a positive HPV test. These findings support its potential role in tertiary prevention of HPV-related cervical disease, particularly in reducing HPV persistence after surgical treatment.

All patients where the cancer treatment has gonadotoxic potential should be referred for oncofertility advice. The effect of chemotherapy and radiotherapy on the human ovary can vary from no impact to full-blown premature ovarian failure due to hormonal and follicular depletion. Total contraindications to fertility cryopreservation include acute malignancy that requires immediate lifesaving therapy. In prepubertal girls, the only option for urgent fertility preservation is ovarian tissue cryopreservation. Prepubertal testicular tissue cryopreservation is experimental.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is capable of revolutionizing cancer therapy and advancing precision oncology via integrating genomics data and digitized health information. AI applications show promise in cancer prediction, prognosis, and treatment planning, particularly in radiomics, deep learning, and machine learning for early cancer diagnosis. However, widespread adoption requires comprehensive data and clinical validation. While AI has demonstrated advantages in treating common malignancies like lung and breast cancers, challenges remain in managing rare tumors due to limited datasets. AI's role in processing multi-omics data and supporting precision oncology decision-making is critical as genetic and health data become increasingly digitized.

This review article presents current knowledge on AI and associated technologies, which are being utilized in the diagnosis and therapy of cancer. The applications of AI in radiomics, deep learning, and machine learning for cancer screening and treatment planning are examined. The study also explores the capabilities and limitations of predictive AI in diagnosis and prognosis, as well as generative AI, such as advanced chatbots, in patient and provider interactions.

AI can improve the early diagnosis and treatment of high-incidence cancers like breast and lung cancer. However, its application in rare cancers is limited by insufficient data for training and validation. AI can effectively process large-scale multi-omics data from DNA and RNA sequencing, enhancing precision oncology. Predictive AI aids in risk assessment and prognosis, while generative AI tools improve patient-provider communication. Despite these advancements, further research and technological progress are needed to overcome existing challenges.

AI holds transformative potential for cancer therapy, particularly in precision oncology, early detection, and personalized treatment planning. However, challenges such as data limitations in rare cancers, the need for clinical validation, and regulatory considerations must be addressed. Future advancements in AI could significantly improve decision-support systems in oncology, ultimately enhancing patient care and quality of life. The review highlights both the opportunities and obstacles in integrating AI into cancer diagnostics and therapeutics, calling for continued research and regulatory oversight.

Cancer registration in mainland China traditionally focuses on household-registered residents (HRR) and does not include the migrant population among permanent residents (PR), leading to significant selection bias. Estimating incidence among permanent residents provides a less biased and more representative measure of the true incidence. We developed a Bayesian Integrated Nested Laplace Approximation with Stochastic Partial Differential Equation model, incorporating inter-provincial migrant population weights to estimate uterine corpus cancer incidence among permanent residents. The findings revealed a substantial interprovincial migrant population of 67,509,881 individuals, with Shanghai and Beijing showing relatively high difference proportions of 39.6% and 37.0%, respectively. Nationally, the differences in estimated uterine corpus cancer incidence between female PR and HRR were marginal, ranging from 0.2/100,000 in Qinghai to - 0.4/100,000 in Shanghai. The analysis estimated that the provinces with the largest differences between incident cases among female PR and HRR were Henan (- 899 cases, 15.7%) and Guangdong (630 cases, 13.7%). This research holds significant implications for countries relying on HRR-based cancer registration system, particularly those contending with substantial migrant populations. The estimated differences in uterine corpus cancer incidence between PR and HRR provide crucial data support for optimizing prevention strategies and enabling precise allocation of regional healthcare resources.

Considering the high incidence of osteoarthritis (OA), especially of the knee and hip, this study explores the possible genetic associations between OA and cancer types, including cancers of the bladder, kidney, breast, and prostate. The objective of our study is to decipher the complex genetic connections among these common disorders, emphasizing potential correlations and underlying biological processes. However, the genetic connections between these diseases remain largely unexplored. It fills a vacuum in the literature by using a new clustering approach based on Harris Hawks Optimization (HHO-C), which is a first for applying machine learning methods to this particular set of genetic data. To address this gap, we introduce HHO-C, a novel machine learning-based clustering approach, for the first time in this specific genetic dataset. The work accomplishes three noteworthy firsts: firstly, it is the first to apply machine learning to the study of the genetic interactions between OA and these cancers. Second, it creates a flexible genetic dataset that will be very helpful for further studies in this field. Finally, it presents the novel HHO-C approach, showcasing how well it manages intricate genetic data and providing fresh perspectives on genetic data analysis. It is anticipated that the results of this investigation will clarify the genetic relationships between OA and these malignancies, which could result in novel understandings of medical genetics and the creation of fresh approaches to diagnosis and treatment.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. Prolonged targeted therapy use can lead to drug resistance and target mismatches, necessitating more effective and safer treatment strategies. Recent research has focused on the tumor microenvironment, which includes immune and stromal cells that play roles in tumor proliferation, metastasis, and neovascularization. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are key immune cells in the tumor microenvironment, promoting tumor invasion, metastasis, and immune escape. Their infiltration density in lung cancer tissue is a poor prognostic factor. Piperlongumine (PL), extracted from Piper longum, possesses antitumor and anti-inflammatory properties, inducing apoptosis and inhibiting invasion and metastasis in lung cancer cells. This study aims to elucidate the correlation between endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) in lung cancer cells and M2-type TAM polarization and the role of PL in regulating lung cancer progression. The network pharmacologic analysis revealed that Piperlongumine inhibits lung cancer progression by inducing endoplasmic reticulum stress. In vivo experiments demonstrated that Piperlongumine significantly reduced tumor volume and decreased the proportion of M2-type macrophages. Within the co-culture system, lung cancer cells were shown to promote macrophage M2-type polarization and enhance cancer cell migration. Piperlongumine effectively inhibited these effects by inducing endoplasmic reticulum stress in cancer cells, thereby reducing M2 polarization and cell migration. The addition of endoplasmic reticulum stress inhibitor 4-PBA counteracted Piperlongumine's effects, further underscoring the crucial role of ERS in the treatment mechanism. Piperlongumine suppresses lung cancer growth by inducing endoplasmic reticulum stress, which inhibits macrophage M2-type polarization and reduces cell migration. These findings support Piperlongumine's potential as a therapeutic agent and offer a foundation for targeting endoplasmic reticulum stress to modulate TAM function in lung cancer treatment.

One of the most lethal forms of cancer that impacts women worldwide is breast cancer (BC). The treatment results are influenced by multiple factors, such as the phase of diagnosis, hereditary and hormonal influences, medication resistance, and metastases. Ailanthus Excelsa (AE) crude extract is rich in antioxidants and possesses potent anticancer properties, as demonstrated in tests on MCF-7 cells. Additionally, both lavender oil (LO) and tea tree oil (TTO) have potential cytotoxicity against cancer.

The purpose of this study was to boost the potency and solubility of AE against breast cancer via its loading in lipidic nanocarriers (LNPs) whose structure is based on a mixture of LO and TTO.

The particle size, stability, and zeta potential of AE-loaded LNPs were examined over 6 months, and the measurements confirmed the good stability of the newly developed AE-LNPs.

The AE-LNPs have demonstrated a stronger anticancer impact compared to free AE and plain LNPs, where IC50 values were found to be 36.88 ± 3.09, 22.09 ± 2.13, and 7.49 ± 0.67µg/ml for plain NPs, free AE, and AE-LNPs, respectively. Furthermore, the AE-LNPs exhibited more pronounced anticancer effects in the Ehrlich ascites in-vivo tumor model, accompanied by significant antiproliferative and antioxidant properties. The immunohistochemical analysis of BCL-2 in tumor tissue validated the apoptotic activity of AE-LNPs.

This study is the first to examine the formulation of the newly developed AE-loaded LNPs, demonstrating their efficacy in producing anti-proliferative effects and their considerable promise for BC treatment.

P-cadherin (CDH3) is a transmembrane protein that plays a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity of epithelial tissue and homeostasis. Its role in carcinogenesis remains a subject of debate, as its behavior can vary depending on the molecular context and the specific tumor cell model under study. In this study, we explored the role of P-cadherin in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and the mechanisms underlying its function.

We analyzed P-cadherin expression in HNSCC patients using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), The Chungnam National University Hospital (CNUH) cohort and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. For in vitro functional analysis, we conducted proliferation, migration, invasion, and western blot assays after either suppressing or overexpressing P-cadherin. For in vivo functional analysis, we utilized mouse xenograft models.

P-cadherin was significantly overexpressed in tumor samples compared to normal samples in the TCGA-HNSCC and CNUH-HNSCC cohorts. P-cadherin knockdown resulted in decreased proliferation, migration, and invasion compared to control cells, while P-cadherin overexpression increased cell proliferation and migration in HNSCC cells. We discovered that c-Met functions as an upstream regulator of P-cadherin. Surprisingly, we found that P-cadherin knockdown increased the phosphorylation of c-Met and STAT3. Combining P-cadherin siRNA with the c-Met inhibitor SU11274 or c-Met siRNA resulted in a more effective reduction in HNSCC cell growth, both in vitro and in vivo, compared to either treatment alone.

Our study uncovered a previously unknown aspect of P-cadherin-mediated c-Met regulation. The enhanced activation of c-Met/STAT3 following P-cadherin inhibition could be responsible for the survival of resistant tumor cells. Therefore, dual inhibition of P-cadherin and c-Met may be an effective approach for treating HNSCC.

Oral potentially malignant disorders (PMD) are heterogenous group of oral conditions characterized by increased risk of malignant transformation that are commonly diagnosed clinically and treated. Tissue biopsy is an invasive tool for diagnosis of oral PMDs. Native fluorescence spectroscopy of biofluids has been considered as an alternative and/or complimentary tool in the characterization of tissues of various pathological conditions. In the present study, it is primarily aimed to characterize different fluorophores present in the blood plasma of normal subjects and PMD patients, using excitation-emission matrix (EEM) and to compare their diagnostic potentials in delineating PMD cases from normal subjects. From EEM measurements of blood plasma, it was observed that there is a maximum emission around 340 ± 5 nm at 307 ± 3 nm excitation for normal subjects and around 337 ± 5 nm emission at 300 ± 3 nm excitation for PMD patients. In addition to the maxima, the contours exhibit other secondary emissions such as 480 ± 5 nm at 335 ± 3 nm excitation for both normal and PMD blood plasma. It was also observed that an emission at 520 ± 5 nm for 440 ± 3 nm excitation is seen for PMD blood plasma and the same is absent in the cases of normal blood plasma. The three contours centred around 340, 480 and 520 nm may be attributed to emissions from tryptophan, NADH and FAD, respectively. Results of stepwise multiple linear discriminant analysis reveal that fluorescence spectral features of NADH classify samples more effectively with 100% sensitivity and 95% specificity.

The aim of this paper is to study the agreement between the findings described by the surgeon during surgery (surgical Peritoneal Cancer Index or sPCI) and those obtained after the histopathological analysis (pathological Peritoneal Cancer Index or pPCI) of the resection specimens, in addition to their prognostic implications.

A consecutive series of patients diagnosed with high-grade serous ovarian cancer with peritoneal dissemination was analyzed between January 2008 and December 2022. sPCI were correlated with the pPCI results. The study considered the surgeon as a diagnostic tool and established, in ovarian cancer, the parameters of sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, and probability coefficients. Specifically, the study focused on the subgroup of patients with false-positive results from sPCI compared to pPCI and its usefulness in assessing the prognosis of the disease.

A total of 231 patients were included, evaluating a total of 3003 peritoneal areas. The median sPCI was 9 (range: 0-35) and 7 for pPCI. Of the 3,003 peritoneal areas evaluated, 132 areas were considered false positives for sPCI. After multivariate analysis, the location of the lesions in the supramesocolic compartment (OR 2.37, 95% CI 1.19-4.53, p = 0.014) was the only independent factor related to a false-positive sPCI result. Patients with false-positive sPCI had a better disease-free survival estimate.

The main usefulness of pPCI would be determined by its ability to correct prognostic estimates of the disease, especially in the case of false positives.

According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, China had the highest mortality burden of esophageal cancer (EC) globally in 2022.

This study aims to analyze the national and provincial trends, patterns, and risk factors of EC deaths in China.

Data from the National Mortality Surveillance System were used to estimate national and provincial deaths, age-standardized mortality rates (ASMRs), and years of life lost (YLL). An age-period-cohort-based Nordpred model was used to predict trends until 2030. Multilevel Poisson and logistic regression were conductedto assess factors influencing EC mortality and the place of death.

From 2008 to 2021, EC deaths and YLLs decreased from 227,677 to 167,529 and from 5.32 million to 3.50 million, respectively. Meanwhile, the ASMR and age-standardized YLL rate decreased from 24.34 to 11.01 per 100,000 and from 535.91 to 231.08 per 100,000, respectively. By 2030, EC deaths and ASMR are predicted to decline to 150,768 and 7.85 per 100,000, respectively. Nationwide, the average age at death increased from 68.46 to 72.45 years, with an increasing proportion of YLLs in the 65-69 age group. Overall premature mortality was observed to decrease, except for an increase in YLLs among urban populations aged ≥60 years. Higher burdens were observed in rural areas compared to urban areas and among males compared to females. Nationwide, individuals with agriculture-related occupations and lower educational levels exhibited significantly higher risks of EC death. Regions with higher prevalences of smoking and harmful drinking, and lower educational, economic, and medical levels were significantly associated with high mortality. Home was the leading place of EC deaths (80.02 %).

The EC mortality burden in China is decreasing but remains a significant threat to public health. Promoting education, occupational prevention, healthy lifestyles, and medical treatment for targeted populations and regions is essential.

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been reported to be associated with the progression of various tumors including colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the role and underlying mechanism of hsa_circ_0087862 in CRC remains unclear. Hsa_circ_0087862 expression in CRC tissues was analyzed using two GEO datasets (GSE138589 and GSE126094). Expression of hsa_circ_0087862, miR-149-5p and tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) in CRC cells was detected. The subcellular distribution of hsa_circ_0087862 was analyzed using a Cytoplasmic & Nuclear RNA Purification Kit. The function of hsa_circ_0087862 in CRC cells was detected using CCK-8, Transwell invasion assay, flow cytometry analysis, and Caspase-3 activity assay. The relationships between hsa_circ_0087862, miR-149-5p and TRAF6 were detected using luciferase reporter assay, RIP, or biotinylated RNA pull-down assay. Hsa_circ_0087862 was upregulated in CRC tissues and cells. Hsa_circ_0087862 is resistant to RNase R digestion and predominantly localized in the cytoplasm. Interference with hsa_circ_0087862 inhibited the malignant phenotypes of CRC cells by reducing cell proliferation and invasive abilities and triggering apoptosis. Hsa_circ_0087862 silencing inhibited TRAF6 expression by sponging miR-149-5p in CRC cells. Inhibition of miR-149-5p attenuated the effects of hsa_circ_0087862 on the malignant phenotypes of CRC cells. TRAF6 overexpression abolished the effects of miR-149-5p on cell growth, invasion and apoptosis in CRC cells. In conclusion, hsa_circ_0087862 silencing inhibited the malignant behaviors of CRC cells through inhibiting TRAF6 expression by sponging miR-149-5p.

The effect of statin use on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) or type two diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is still unclear. In this umbrella review, we aimed to assess the available evidence for the association of statin use and HCC risk in the target population.

We carried out an umbrella review of previous systematic reviews/meta-analyses indexed in Cochrane, Embase, Scopus, and PubMed databases and published between Jan 1st, 2013, and Oct 22, 2024. We used random effects models to recalculate summary risk estimates for HCC incidence. Using A Measurement Tool to Assess methodological quality of systematic Review (AMSTAR2) tool, two independent reviewers evaluated each article for eligibility and methodologic quality and gathered data from the included studies.

Of the initially identified 1,038 systematic reviews/meta-analyses, three non-overlapping studies with medium/high quality were included for qualitative synthesis. Statin use in people with T2DM was reported in six studies belonging to two meta-analyses. The results showed that statins were associated with a decreased risk of HCC (RR: 0.16, 95% CI: [0.03, 0.98]). However, the association was nonsignificant in patients with MASLD comprising five studies from one meta-analysis (RR: 0.89, 95% CI: [0.56, 1.40]).

Statin use is associated with a decreased incidence of HCC in people with T2DM. In patients with MASLD, the association is not significant. However, the effects of other variables including the stage of inflammation and/or liver fibrosis on the outcome need to be explored in future studies.

HPV self-sampling has the potential to improve early detection of cervical cancer among women living with HIV (WLHIV), but its acceptability varies, creating implementation challenges, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. This study aims to assess the acceptability of HPV self-sampling among WLHIV. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, Academic Medical Ultimate, Cochrane databases, and Google Scholar. The review protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022299781). Inclusion criteria were based on population, intervention, comparison, and outcome. Statistical analysis was done with R Studio version 4.3.2, and data abstraction was performed in Microsoft Excel. The analysis included 14 studies on the acceptability of HPV self-sampling among WLHIV. The overall acceptability rate was 73%. The pooled data showed that 94% felt comfortable with self-sampling, 72% found it easy to use, 10% reported pain, 14% felt embarrassed, and 41% felt confident about the process. The study found that a majority of WLHIV accepted HPV self-sampling, a higher rate than in the general female population. Many participants had concerns about the method's efficacy. This indicates that while WLHIV generally views self-sampling positively, additional education and support are needed to improve their confidence in its accuracy and reliability.

Lymphedema secondary to multimodal breast cancer treatment is a relatively common complication that significantly impacts patients' quality of life. Despite identifying several associated risk factors, accurately assessing individual risk remains challenging. This study aims to develop predictive tools integrating patient characteristics, tumor attributes, and treatment modalities to optimize clinical surveillance, enhance prevention, and enable earlier diagnosis.

Data were analyzed from 309 patients referred to the Lymphedema Unit of Rehabilitation Service who underwent lymphadenectomy for breast cancer between January 2016 and December 2021. Collected variables included patient demographics, tumor clinicopathological features, and treatment details. A lymphedema incidence study was conducted, complemented by univariate and multivariate regression analyses to identify risk factors. A nomogram was developed to predict high-risk patients, facilitating personalized prevention and management strategies.

The cumulative incidence of lymphedema was 18.4%. Independent risk factors included high body mass index, sedentary lifestyle, number of positive nodes (N stage), and radiotherapy, particularly targeting the breast, axilla, and supra-infraclavicular regions. The logistic regression model demonstrated an area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.75, with acceptable calibration, validating the predictive model.

The predictive tools developed provide healthcare professionals with a means to identify patients at elevated risk of lymphedema, supporting individualized prevention and management.

The diagnosis and prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) present significant challenges in clinical practice. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical utility of tumor abnormal protein (TAP), Prothrombin induced by vitamin K absence-II (PIVKA-II), and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in diagnosing HCC as well as to investigate their prognostic significance in patients with HCC undergoing transarterial chemoembolization.

A total of 93 HCC patients were enrolled and 101 healthy individuals served as controls. Fresh venous blood samples were collected, and TAP, PIVKA-II, and AFP levels were measured by chemiluminescence immunoassay.

Significant differences in TAP, PIVKA-II, and AFP levels were found between HCC patients and healthy individuals. The combined assay of TAP, AFP, and PIVKA-II showed better diagnostic performance for HCC. Patients who underwent transarterial chemoembolization and achieved complete response (CR) had lower levels of prechemotherapy serum TAP, AFP, and PIVKA-II. There are significant differences in levels of TAP, AFP, and PIVKA-II between CR and partial response (PR), CR and stable disease (SD), and CR and progressive disease (PD).

Combined detection of TAP, PIVKA-II, and AFP has better diagnostic performance for HCC. Higher levels of prechemotherapy serum TAP, AFP, and PIVKA-II are significantly associated with poor clinical chemoresponse.

Background: PC has become a significant global health challenge, with incidence and mortality rates rising over the past three decades. While traditionally associated with aging, recent data indicate an increasing burden among younger populations. This study aims to analyze global trends in PC incidence and mortality and to identify key contributing factors, particularly modifiable risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, and smoking. Methods: Using data from the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2021, population-based cancer registries globally and nationally, systematic reviews and analysis trends in PC incidence, mortality and survival were analyzed. To assess epidemiological shifts, we utilized previously published annual percentage change (AAPC) values stratified by region, age group, and sex, as reported in the cited literature. Additionally, the influence of modifiable risk factors was evaluated to determine their contribution to rising incidence rates. Results: Between 1990 and 2021, the global incidence of PC increased by 8.9%, from 5.47 to 5.96 per 100,000, with the highest rates observed in high-Sociodemographic-Index (SDI) regions (10.00 per 100,000) and the lowest in low-SDI regions (1.59 per 100,000). Significant increases in incidence were noted in several countries, particularly among men in Iceland (AAPC 8.85) and women in Malta (AAPC 6.04). Early-onset PC is becoming more prevalent, especially among younger women. Modifiable risk factors, including obesity, diabetes, and smoking, play a critical role, with excess body weight contributing to 17.9% of PC cases and smoking to 13.9% in the United States (U.S.). Conclusions: The rising burden of PC, particularly among younger populations, highlights the need for targeted prevention strategies, early detection efforts, and further research into the underlying mechanisms driving these trends. Addressing modifiable risk factors could be key to mitigating the increasing incidence of this highly lethal cancer.

The goal of this work is to compare the Varian TrueBeam plan quality and delivery verification with two Halcyon plans in order to give a Varian Halcyon planning solution for left-sided breast postmastectomy radiotherapy (PMRT). Twenty-five patients who previously received left-sided breast postmastectomy intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) on TrueBeam were retrospectively selected and replanned using Halcyon. The planning target volume (PTV) included the chest wall, the supra/infra-clavicular region, and the internal mammary region, with a prescribed dose of 50 Gy in 25 fractions (2 Gy/F). For each patient, a Halcyon IMRT (HA-IMRT) plan and a Halcyon volumetric-modulated arc treatment (HA-VMAT) plan were created in addition to the initial TrueBeam fixed-jaws IMRT (TB-IMRT) plan. The conformity index (CI) and homogeneity index (HI) of the PTVs, the dose of organs at risk (OARs), the delivery MUs and time, and the verification passing rate were calculated and compared. Statistical significance was determined with a significance level of 0.05 using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. HA-IMRT and TB-IMRT made generally clinical equivalence and have tiny differences for target coverage and OAR sparing. HA-IMRT lowered the V10, V20, V30, and Dmean of the ipsilateral lung, the V5, V10, V20, V30, and Dmean of the heart compared to TB-IMRT (p < 0.05). On the other hand, it increased V5 of the ipsilateral lung, Dmean of the contralateral lung, V10 of the contralateral breast, left humeral head, and thyroid, and HI of the target (p < 0.05). No significant differences were found in CI, V5 and V10 of the contralateral lung, V5 and Dmean of the contralateral breast, V30 and Dmax of thyroid, Dmean and Dmax of esophagus, or Dmax of spinal cord (p > 0.05). HA-VMAT showed a better CI but increased most OAR metrics mentioned above than TB-IMRT and/or HA-IMRT (p < 0.05). Both HA-IMRT and HA-VMAT decreased delivery time compared to TB-IMRT (2.96 ± 0.61 min, 0.77 ± 0.11 min, and 3.52 ± 0.92 min, respectively, p < 0.05). The mean gamma passing rates of HA-IMRT and HA-VMAT were also significantly raised compared to TB-IMRT.

Hepatocellular carcinoma is the seventh most common kind of cancer worldwide and the second largest cause of cancer-related deaths in males, behind lung cancer. Globally, 866,000 people were diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in 2022, and nearly 42,240 new cases will be identified in 2025 in the United States. Using stem cells obtained from bone marrow can effectively reduce the number of malignant tumor cells through the induction of an epigenetic impact. We obtained bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) from mice and collected the conditioned medium (CM) from cultured cells with 90% confluency. The effect of the CM was identified using both 2D and 3D sphere cultures of wild-type human liver cancer cell line (HepG2), considering variations in sphere size and percentage. A cell death study was conducted using the cell cytotoxicity (MTT) kit, while the quantity of stem cells was determined by immunohistochemistry and gene expression analysis. The effectiveness of our therapy was demonstrated by an in vivo assessment of BM-MSCs through intravenous injection and the currently available anticancer drug cisplatin. In vitro, the combination treatment resulted in a synergetic effect, leading to 74% cell death in both adherent and spherical cultures when treated with 25 µM of cisplatin and 90%CM. In vivo, the histological study indicated a decrease in tumor size and number following treatment with cisplatin and BM-MSCs. The study lasted 18 weeks and revealed that the body weight of mice improved across all treatment groups, with the combination group exhibiting the most significant improvement. Both in vitro and in vivo studies showed the synergetic effect of cisplatin and isolated conditioned medium. Our study aimed to identify more efficient therapeutic approaches utilizing stem cells and existing marketed medications to minimize adverse effects with better efficacy.

To explore whether there is a relationship between perirenal fat area (PFA) and the pathological types of renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

Two hundred ninety-seven cases of RCC patients were included in our study, which is a retrospective analysis. Based on pathological type, we divided the 297 RCC patients into two groups: the clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) group (236 cases) and the non-clear cell renal cell carcinoma (non-ccRCC) group (61 cases). Computed tomography (CT) images at the renal vein level were used to measure PFA. A multivariate logistic regression model was employed to examine the connection between various pathological types of RCC and PFA.

Significant differences were observed between ccRCC and non-ccRCC patients in PFA (P = 0.007), contralateral PFA (P = 0.011), weight (P = 0.002), BMI (P < 0.001), pathological stage 1 (P = 0.010), and pathological stage 2 (P = 0.002). To study the link between pathological subtypes and PFA, a multivariate logistic regression model was employed. Stratifying patients by tumor location in the kidney, the multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that when the tumor is located outside the polar lines of the kidney (OPLK), for every 1 cm2 increase in PFA, the probability of developing ccRCC increases by 5% [1.05 (1.01, 1.10) P = 0.0153]. Furthermore, after stratifying patients by tumor location and pathological stage, it was found that in T1 stage patients with tumors located OPLK, for every 1 cm2 increase in PFA, the probability of developing ccRCC increases by 6% [1.06 (1.01, 1.11) P = 0.0300].

When the tumor is located OPLK in T1 stage patients, PFA is positively correlated with ccRCC. Perirenal adipose tissue may be a risk factor for ccRCC.

The utility of the immune prognostic index (IPI) for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) has yet to be established after minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE). The purpose of this study was to investigate the value of IPI in predicting the prognosis and postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy (AC) benefits of ESCC patients.

Between January 2011 and December 2018, 613 ESCC patients underwent MIE at our center and were divided into two groups: low IPI and high IPI.Log-rank tests were used to compare the overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) of patients in different groups based on Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Differences in clinical characteristics between groups were eliminated by propensity score matching (PSM) analysis. To identify independent risk factors influencing OS and DFS, the Cox proportional risk model was used.

In comparison to the high IPI group, the low IPI group had a better 5-year OS and DFS in both the entire and matched cohorts (P < 0.05). IPI was found to be an independent prognostic factor for OS and DFS in a multivariate analysis of the entire cohort and the matched cohort (P < 0.05). In subgroup analyses of most clinicopathological factors, high IPI was associated with a higher risk of death or recurrence in the matched cohorts. When combined with 8th TNM staging, the 5-year OS and DFS of stage II or III patients with low IPI in the AC group were not different from those in the non-AC group (P > 0.05), and AC of stage III patients with high IPI significantly prolonged 5-year OS and DFS (OS: 37.4% vs 26.2%, P = 0.018; DFS: 33.6% vs 19.8%, P = 0.042).

Preoperative IPI is a promising predictor of ESCC after MIE. For stage III ESCC patients with high IPI, AC can significantly reduce the risk of death or recurrence.

The applicability of venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk assessment models (RAMs), to breast cancer (BC) populations remains unclear. We aimed to compare the efficacy of current RAMs and examine the potential of additional hematologic parameters and thromboelastography (TEG); a point of care test, in improving VTE prediction in breast cancer (BC) patients.

In this pilot study, female BC patients were recruited before chemotherapy and followed for 6-12 months for VTE. VTE risk was assessed using Khorana score, Vienna CATS, PROTECHT, COMPASS-CAT, New Vienna CATSCORE, MDACC CAT, and hypercoagulability status. TEG and hematologic parameters were analyzed, and a modified RAM was developed.

Among 47 patients, 5 (10.6%) developed VTE. PROTECHT was the strongest predictor [area under the curve (AUC) = 0.844], followed by Vienna CATS (AUC = 0.781). Adding immature granulocytes and red blood cell count to PROTECHT optimized prediction (AUC = 0.856).

Incorporating hematologic parameters into PROTECHT may improve VTE risk prediction in BC patients, warranting further evaluation in larger studies.

To address the limitations and complexities associated with tissue biopsy, emerging nanotechnology methods show promise in enhancing the detection and management of oral squamous cell carcinoma and oral potential malignant disorders. Among them, the characterization of the protein corona, the biomolecular layer that envelops materials when exposed to biological fluids, has recently emerged as a powerful tool for distinguishing oncological patients from healthy people.

Building upon recent insights, here we formulated a new diagnostic method for oral squamous cell carcinoma and oral potentially malignant disorders based on the characterization of the personalized protein corona formed on graphene oxide nanosheets when exposed to the plasma of the patients.

The findings highlighted a discernible distinction between oncological subjects and healthy ones, resulting in an overall accuracy of 87%. Subsequently, we applied this method to monitor the progression of the diseases of the patients undergoing treatment, and we observed a trend indicating a convergence of protein profiles between oncological patients and healthy subjects throughout the treatment course.

If further confirmed in larger prospective studies, this new approach could discriminate oral squamous cell carcinoma and oral potentially malignant disorders and can be considered in the management of these oral diseases.

Epidemiological studies have revealed significant associations between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and thyroid disorders, but discrepancies and contradictory results remain in some studies. Given the limited research currently available on this topic, this article aims to review the relationship between OSA and thyroid diseases.

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and The Cochrane Library were searched for the most recent literature on the correlation, mechanism, and treatment of OSA with various thyroid disorders for the last 10 years up to December 5, 2024.

There is a bidirectional association between OSA and thyroid disease. On the one hand, OSA not only increases the incidence of thyroid disorders, but also aggravates the severity of thyroid disorders, thereby negatively affecting treatment outcomes and prognosis; on the other hand, certain thyroid disorders may in turn promote the development of OSA.

OSA is closely associated with the development of thyroid disease, but the specific mechanism is not clear. Effective treatments for thyroid disease combined with OSA need to be further investigated.

Head and neck cancer (HNC) is the sixth most prevalent malignancy worldwide and includes a variety of upper gastrointestinal abnormalities. HNC includes oral, throat, voice box, nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses, and salivary gland cancers. Squamous cells in the mouth, nose, and throat cause HNC. Drugs, alcohol, poor diets, smoking, and genetics all contribute to this condition. Cancer research has focused on three-dimensional (3D) models in HNC biology in recent decades. An adequate microenvironmental system and cancer cell culture are the initial steps to understanding cancer cells' complicated interactions with their surroundings. New 3D models claim to bridge in vivo and in vitro investigations and erase the gap. Interdisciplinary cell biology and tissue engineering researchers are creating 3D cancer tissue models to better understand the illness and develop more accurate cancer medicines. Tissue engineering researchers, who are always exploring novel approaches to treat cancer, have been able to include the third dimension into laboratory settings and mimic cell-to-cell and cell-to-matrix interactions by recreating the tumor microenvironment using 3D models and so make research on cancer easier. This review addresses recent developments in tissue engineering with an emphasis on 3D models in HNC.

Prostate cancer (CaP) is the leading non-cutaneous cancer in men of African descent, with the higher mortality rates found in sub-Saharan Africa. Early diagnosis, staging, and management of prostate cancer could help curb its mortality rate in SSA. However, access to precise radiological imaging for staging purposes is limited in our setting. We sought to evaluate the correlation between total prostate specific antigen (tPSA) and histological grading of CaP in our resource-limited setting.

We conducted a retrospective review of records of patients treated for biopsy-proven CaP at the AICKH diagnosed between January 2018 and December 2022. We excluded patients who were already on any sort of treatment of bladder outlet obstruction and incomplete charts. We used Spearman correlation coefficients, and ANOVA to evaluate the relationship between tPSA and various grading parameters. A P-value less than 0.05 was considered significant.

We included 327 medical records. The mean tPSA was 112 ± 4.5ng/ml. The most common Gleason score and grade group were 8 (33.8%) and 4 (33.8%) respectively. Perineural involvement was present in 33% of our population. The tPSA had a positive correlation with Gleason score (rho = 0.253, p < 0.001), grade group (rho = 0.296, p < 0.001), perineural involvement (rho = 0.241, p = 0.001) and proportion of sample invasion (rho = 0.171, p = 0.005). A linear and homogenous variance existed in mean tPSA across increasing Gleason score (p < 0.001).

tPSA is a good predictor of the severity of CaP in resource-limited settings and can be used to inform management decisions.